Posts Tagged ‘cctv’

CCTV Systems – It’s Not Just About Security

Friday, October 1st, 2010

Although we tend to think of CCTV systems being used to help reduce crime on our streets, or being placed in strategic positions in shops and factories, there are other uses for CCTV cameras.

One of these uses is concerned with town planning. A city council in the north of England used CCTV equipment to help them determine the traffic flow at a junction where major changes were to be made. This junction was a complicated intersection consisting of two main trunk roads and three local roads. Before any work could begin, it was necessary to carry out an analysis of traffic flow. The usual method employed to do this is to use council staff as observers who would sit by each junction and count the vehicles passing.

The council decided that this was not only expensive but also not a very accurate method of gauging a complete week’s traffic twenty four hours a day. Another problem was that although traffic flow could be counted at the junctions, it would be difficult to determine once the vehicles had passed the particular spot in question.

With all of these factors in mind, the council opted to use CCTV systems to monitor the traffic flow. There was a multi-storey car park right in the centre of the intersection and the CCTV cameras were mounted on the building which covered every junction and allowed the council to compile an accurate report of the traffic flow. This is just one example of how CCTV equipment can be used for many purposes, and not just as a tool for cutting crime.

CCTV Equipment for Your Home

Friday, September 24th, 2010

You will be well aware of CCTV cameras in the high street, both in the shops and outside, where they are used to monitor the crowds, on the look out for any kind of disturbance or crime that could potentially occur. Most of us associate CCTV with businesses or as an aid of security on our streets, but many people are realising that they are also beneficial when it comes to security in our homes.

When you look at crime statistics, the chances of being burgled in your home is relatively low, which leads many crime experts to believe that the biggest problem is actually the fear of being burgled. If this sounds like you, then maybe it’s time you considered having security camera systems installed in your home.

Statistics have shown that a potential burglar will ignore a house which has CCTV equipment as they know there is a good chance they will be identified, found and prosecuted. Many people have the impression that CCTV is both expensive and complicated, but you may be surprised to find that this is not exactly the case. Depending on your needs, you can have peace of mind by installing just one CCTV camera, for example, one which will monitor the front of rear of your home. If you want to have extra security, it’s possible to have CCTV cameras in several locations around your premises which will ensure that no-one is able to approach your house from any direction, one of the simpliest ways to install CCTV into a house is to buy a CCTV kit and the one we recommend is the Evolve CCTV Kit as it is plug and play with very easy to use menu system and excellent playback quality as it is using H.264 compression.

Pros and Cons of Security Camera Systems

Thursday, September 9th, 2010

There isn’t a town or city in the UK which doesn’t have CCTV cameras monitoring the streets.

Many people have voiced concerns about this, pointing out that this is an infringement of our civil rights and that we are now a Big Brother state as a result of the proliferation of these security cameras. But for every claim that CCTV is a bad thing, there are many more which show how CCTV systems have made a major impact when it comes to cutting crime.

Consider for a moment how often you see CCTV images on the news. More often than not, these images become evidence in a major crime and when the case reaches court the CCTV footage has been instrumental in sending the criminals to prison. This covers everything from minor assaults to murders and robberies, and in some high profile cases, terrorist activities.

While those who are opposed to CCTV on our streets argue that we are now a Big Brother state, defenders of these security systems point out that the vast majority of the population have nothing to fear if they are caught on camera. A fair point, because if you are going about your daily life with no criminal intent and you happen to get filmed by CCTV security cameras, what is the problem? The chances are the footage will be deleted after a period of time, so you have nothing to worry about. It’s only those who are determined to commit crimes who have to fear CCTV equipment which monitors our streets, and surely, that has to be a good thing?

How Effective is CCTV? You Decide!

Tuesday, August 31st, 2010

Crime experts are divided about just how effective CCTV is when it comes to stopping or even reducing crime, but one thing is clear from independent research carried out in the UK. CCTV systems do have a dramatic effect when it comes to reducing fear of crime among the public, and they do ensure, in the event of an assault being picked up by the CCTV cameras, that the rapid response of police officers gives less time for offenders to inflict more injuries on the victim.

In order to really discover if CCTV systems are truly effective, police authorities have to conduct their evaluations over a long period of time to eliminate any inconsistencies in the data. This is why, to a certain extent, the jury is still out on just how effective CCTV is.

There is another element to this. It is essential that the CCTV operators are well-trained and are aware of the fastest way to deploy police officers. The correct, up to date training will ensure that CCTV systems will be more effective when it comes to tackling crime on the streets, and local authorities are now well aware of this and ensure that their staff are given refresher courses about the best way to use security camera systems.

The consensus seems to be that CCTV cameras are going to become more important in the future when it comes to preventing crime, and as the CCTV security cameras become more sophisticated, more offenders will be caught and – perhaps even more important – more crimes will be prevented.

Still Not Convinced About CCTV Security?

Saturday, August 14th, 2010

If you are considering having CCTV cameras installed but you are still a little unsure about the benefits, it may help you make your decision when you look at some statistics which have been produced in this field. An independent survey carried out recently suggests that there have been significant reductions in the amount of crime being committed where cameras are installed. And to back this up, an article in a well regarded scientific magazine showed that simply installing a system can reduce crime, in the areas covered by the security cameras, by more than 95 per cent. If you’re not convinced yet that security camera systems can help you, carry on reading and look at the other benefits.

Once your CCTV security is in place, the chances of robberies and other crimes are less likely to occur. You only have to look at it from the criminals point of view to understand why this is the case. These people want to steal your stock, but they don’t want to end up in court, so they tend to avoid business which are protected by CCTV cameras.

Getting back to those statistics, it transpires that almost 80 per cent of thefts are down to customers or staff, with customers accounting for the largest amount. You have worked hard to build up your business, making many sacrifices along the way. Why let the thieves get away with stealing your goods? It is in your interests to have the best security cameras and CCTV equipment in place which will help you to tackle this problem.

Protect Your Business with CCTV Cameras

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

If you are concerned about security, either in your home or at your business, there are many benefits to using CCTV. If you are considering a CCTV camera installation in the workplace this will give you two major benefits immediately, in that it will help to provide a safer environment for you and your staff as well as making the business less likely to be targeted by thieves.

Depending on your needs, CCTV systems consist of either a single camera and monitor or they can be very elaborate, with several cameras located around the premises which are monitored from a remote location by a security expert.

Deterrence is the main reason why many companies install security cameras. Most thieves don’t just strike at random, but decide which building is vulnerable and easy to enter. If the building does not have CCTV, this will make it more attractive to them and before you know it, the gang has entered the building and cleared it out.

The same applies to shoplifters. If you are a retailer, you will know just how bad this can be for your business. If the potential shoplifter sees that your store is well protected by CCTV systems, they will more than likely move on to a shop which doesn’t have security camera systems.

CCTV cameras can also be used to keep an eye on the cash till, which will help you to resolve any misunderstandings which may take place when your staff are handling large amounts of money every day.

CCTV and Crime Figures

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

The widespread use of CCTV cameras in Britain has led to some controversy from those who do not support the fact we are the most monitored country in the world. However, the use of security equipment has been beneficial in reducing crime of all kinds, from the high street right through to the workplace and the home.

We are all familiar with the CCTV systems on the high streets of Britain, and for most of us they just blend in to the background, seeing but unseen. Supporters of these CCTV installations point out that the majority of the population do not have to worry about them, as they are there as a deterrent to those who have criminal intentions on our streets, such as shop lifters, muggers and those who cause havoc with their anti-social behaviour.

The footage from CCTV cameras has also been used in many court cases, by both the prosecution and the defence, so there is yet another reason for them being present on our streets. CCTV Footage has either sent an individual to prison or helped to clear them when they have been wrongly accused of a crime.

In addition to these benefits, surveys have shown that CCTV helps to make people feel more secure as they go about their daily business in towns and cities all over the UK.

What to Look For in CCTV Installers

Wednesday, June 30th, 2010

Installing your own CCTV systems can be a tricky business, so it’s often wise to consult the professionals. They’ll have all the experience necessary and will be able to install your new system in the best possible way to give you the security you need, but just what should you be looking for in CCTV installers?

For starters, you need to be looking for experience. You want to get the best results possible from your new security system, but you can’t hope to achieve that if your installers can’t get everything set up correctly. You need to be positive they can do the job properly, so make sure to check that they’re a reliable company with great recommendations from past customers.

You also need to make sure they can offer you top-quality equipment. You shouldn’t be looking for anything less than the best, and any CCTV camera installation company should be able to offer you exceptional systems combined with great service.

Budget will also be a big consideration, so any company needs to be able to offer their services at a price you can afford. But at the same time steer clear of anyone that offers their services too cheap – you often get what you pay for, so always ensure they can offer a quality service at the right price.

These are just a few things you need to be looking for in CCTV installers, and if you come to us here at CCTV4U we’ll be able to tick all the boxes. We’re confident you’ll be happy with your choice, so come and see for yourself and look forward to your new system being expertly installed.

Different Types of CCTV Cameras to Consider

Sunday, June 27th, 2010

If you’re in the market for a new CCTV camera, you could well be blown away by all the choice on offer. It probably seems difficult to know where to start, so to help you understand the various systems available here’s a quick run through of some of the most popular options.

• Box cameras. These CCTV security cameras are incredibly popular and can be used for all types of business and industry, and you’ve probably seen them in various places across the country. As the name suggests they’re in the traditional box shape, and a lot of models are incredibly affordable so will be ideal for those on a budget.

• CCTV domes. In this area you can get options that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and again they can be incredibly affordable so are the perfect way to keep an eye on events from all angles.

• Bullet cameras. These cameras offer high resolution images and many can be suitable for both day and night use, and because they’re often smaller than most box cameras they can be ideal for those that don’t want their security system to be too obvious.

These are just a few of the most popular CCTV cameras available, but you’ll probably need some more advice before you decide on the right ones for you. If that’s the case, make sure to head to us here at CCTV4U and we’ll be pleased to help with any queries you may have, and will be able to point you in the right direction of the perfect cameras for you.

Getting the Most Out Of Your CCTV Equipment

Thursday, June 24th, 2010

The right CCTV equipment can be hugely beneficial to businesses and homes alike. It can provide safety, security and a great way to monitor surroundings, but if you really want the best results you need to know how to make the most out of your equipment.

To do this, it’s essential you find the right products. Quality is of paramount importance as you don’t want your system to let you down, so make sure you go for the best products possible from a reliable outlet so you can be confident in your choice. It’s also a good idea to let the professionals install your equipment for you if you want the best results, so always look for a company that can offer CCTV installation.

You also need to remember the positioning of your wireless security cameras, as it’s pointless having them there if they’re not going to pick up any activity. They should be angled just right to capture the movements of anyone going into and out of your home or business, and make sure to cover any high traffic or risk areas to make sure nothing can happen without being seen.

These are just a few ways you can get the most out of your CCTV equipment, and if you bear these points in mind you’ll have nothing to worry about. Make sure to come to us here at CCTV4U for the best equipment and trust us to install it perfectly to give you the security you need.